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The iDeal MSC-18K-X-236 is a professional-grade, ALI-certified mobile column lift system engineered for heavy-duty commercial vehicle service. With 18,000 lbs. of lifting capacity per column, this set of 2 columns delivers a combined 36,000 lbs. total capacity, making it ideal for lifting fire trucks, school buses, medium-duty trucks, and other large commercial vehicles by the wheels. The system is also available in sets of four (MSC-18K-X-472) or six columns (MSC-18K-X-6108) to accommodate even larger vehicles with up to 108,000 lbs. of total lifting capacity.
Designed with mobility and versatility in mind, the MSC-18K-X features a compact footprint and battery-powered operation that allows technicians to quickly transform a flat bay into a fully functional lift bay. Each column operates independently or in synchronized pairs using a sophisticated PLC and optical encoder system that provides continuous synchronization for safe, precise lifting. The 24VDC battery operation with onboard charging system eliminates the need for floor-mounted power drops, giving you the freedom to position columns anywhere in your shop with a concrete surface strength of at least 3,000 PSI.
The mobile design allows each column to be easily positioned using a pallet jack-type device with poly caster wheels, and the U-shape wiring configuration with retractable cable reels ensures quick vehicle entry and exiting while keeping cables organized and out of the way. When not in use, the columns can be conveniently stored out of the way to maximize valuable shop space. To view the lift inspection guide, click here.
Exceptional Lifting Performance for Commercial Vehicles
Each column in the MSC-18K-X-236 system is capable of lifting 18,000 pounds. In a tandem of 2, that means 36,000 pounds of lifting capacity. The iDeal MSC-18K-X is available in sets of two, four and six columns to provide up to 108,000 lbs. of lifting capacity. The MSC-18K-X is designed to lift fire trucks, school buses and other large commercial vehicles by the wheels. Optional accessories provide the flexibility to lift pickup trucks and wheels-free lifting for expanded service capabilities.
Technicians realize improved productivity through safe, simple operation of the lift at each column using the well-designed control panel. Each column delivers a 67.1" lifting height with adjustable column height ranging from a minimum of 88.6" to a maximum of 155.5". The column width measures 44.1", providing a stable base for heavy loads. The system achieves full lifting in 100 seconds and lowering in 60 seconds at the rated load of 18,000 lbs. per column, providing efficient operation without compromising safety.
The adjustable lifting forks offer a range from 12.6" to 22", accommodating the widest range of wheel diameters for maximum versatility across your fleet. Each fork measures 17.9" in length and maintains a 10" clearance from fork to column for easy positioning. Columns can be positioned up to 32'8" apart, offering exceptional flexibility for vehicles of various wheelbases and configurations.
Advanced Safety and Control Features
Safety is paramount when lifting heavy commercial vehicles. The MSC-18K-X incorporates multiple layers of protection, including an independent mechanical locking system at each column and emergency stop switches at every station for the highest safety assurance. The system's PLC-controlled synchronization with optical encoder continuously monitors and adjusts each column's height to maintain perfect alignment throughout the lift cycle, preventing dangerous tipping or uneven loading.
Technicians appreciate the easy-to-use master control panel that allows for individual column operation or paired synchronized lifting from any column location. Convenient operation from any column means you can control the entire system without walking back and forth across the bay. The LCD screen with keypad provides clear, easy-to-read visuals for setting lifting height with precision, eliminating guesswork and ensuring consistent, safe operation.
The mobile design and quick setup process mean less downtime between jobs. The poly caster wheels make it easy to move each column into position using standard pallet jack equipment. Once positioned, the system is ready for indoor set-up operation on any concrete surface with minimum 3,000 PSI strength. The communication cable with retractable cable reels keeps wiring organized and safe during operation and storage.
Mobile Design for Maximum Workspace Efficiency
The true advantage of the MSC-18K-X mobile column system is its ability to maximize your shop's productivity and space utilization. Unlike traditional fixed lifts that permanently occupy valuable floor space, these columns can be quickly deployed when needed and conveniently stored out of the way when not in use to maximize work space. The mobile design allows you to reconfigure your shop layout on demand, converting any bay with adequate floor space into a heavy-duty service station.
The battery-powered operation means no hardwired electrical connections or hydraulic lines to route across your shop floor. Each column requires Qty 2 12V or Qty 1 24V deep cycle batteries (batteries not included) and includes an onboard charging system for convenient recharging. The charging voltage input is 100-140V / 60Hz / single phase, and the system outputs 24VDC at max 15 Amp for reliable, consistent performance.
The recommended battery specification is a 12VDC sealed deep cycle battery, BCI Group 31, AH 105 with a rating of 120 AMP/HR and 350-500 CCA starting current. Recommended batteries are Type 27 or 31 Series deep cycle batteries. Battery dimensions must not exceed 14.2" x 7.5" x 11.8" tall to fit within the battery cover size of 14.56" x 8.27" x 13".
The system now includes a NEW! LED light with magnetic base for improved visibility during service procedures. The U-shape wiring configuration allows for quick vehicle entry and exiting without having to disconnect or move cables, streamlining workflow and reducing setup time between lifts.
Key Highlights
18,000 lbs. capacity per column — 36,000 lbs. total capacity for this 2-column set (also available in 4 or 6-column configurations)
Mobile battery-powered design with 24VDC operation and onboard charging eliminates hardwired electrical requirements
ALI-certified for safety and reliability, with independent mechanical locking and emergency stops at each column
PLC and optical encoder synchronization ensures precise, safe lifting across all columns with continuous monitoring
Adjustable lifting forks (12.6" - 22") accommodate a wide range of wheel diameters for maximum versatility
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Structural Warranty:
The following parts and structural components carry a five year warranty:
Columns
Top Rails
Beams
Uprights
Arms
Swivel
Pins
Legs
Carriages
Tracks
Cross Rails
Overhead Beams
Limited One-Year Warranty:
Tuxedo Distributors, LLC offers a limited one-year warranty to the original purchaser of iDeal Lifts and Wheel Service in the United States and Canada. Tuxedo Distributors, LLC will replace, without charge, any part found defective in materials or workmanship under normal use, for a period of one year after purchase. The purchaser is responsible for all shipping charges. This warranty does not apply to equipment that has been improperly installed or altered or that has not been operated or maintained according to specifications.
Other Limitations:
This warranty does not cover:
Parts needed for normal maintenance
Wear parts, including but not limited to cables, rub blocks, chains, rubber pads and pulleys
Replacement of lift and tire changer cylinders after the first 30 days. A seal kit and installation instructions will be sent for repairs thereafter.
On-site labor
Upon delivery of goods, the Customer has sole responsibility to notify Tuxedo Distributors, LLC of missing parts or concealed damage within 72 hours of receipt. If no notification of missing parts or of concealed damage is made, all parts will be purchased after 72 hours has passed.
Upon receipt, the customer must visually inspect the equipment for any potential freight damage before signing clear on the shipping receipt. Freight damage is not considered a warranty issue and therefore must be noted for any potential recovery with the shipping company.
The customer is required to notify Tuxedo Distributors, LLC of any missing parts within 72 hours. Timely notification must be received to be covered under warranty.
Tuxedo Distributors, LLC will replace any defective part under warranty at no charge as soon as such parts become available from the manufacturer. No guarantee is given as to the immediate availability of replacement parts.
Tuxedo Distributors, LLC reserves the right to make improvements and/or design changes to its without any obligation to previously sold, assembled or fabricated equipment.
There is no other express warranty on the iDeal lifts and this warranty is exclusive of and in lieu of all other
warranties, expressed or implied, including all warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
To the fullest extent allowed by law, Tuxedo Distributors, LLC shall not be liable for loss of use, cost of cover, lost profits, inconvenience, lost time, commercial loss or other incidental or consequential damages.
This Limited Warranty is granted to the original purchaser only and is not transferable or assignable.
Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of consequential damages or how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations and exclusions may not apply. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights, which may vary from state to state
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